A nurse is reviewing the diagnostic test results of a female client who is about to undergo knee arthroplasty. Which of the following data collection findings should the nurse identify as the priority?
Creatinine 0.9 mg/dL
WBC count 20,000/mm3
Potassium 3.8 mEq/L
Hematocrit 40%
The Correct Answer is B
a. Creatinine 0.9 mg/dL: This creatinine level is within the normal range and is not an immediate priority for knee arthroplasty.
b. WBC count 20,000/mm3: An elevated white blood cell count suggests the presence of
infection or inflammation. In the context of knee arthroplasty, infection is a significant concern and requires immediate attention to prevent complications.
c. Potassium 3.8 mEq/L: This potassium level is within the normal range and is not an immediate priority for knee arthroplasty.
d. Hematocrit 40%: This hematocrit level is within the normal range and is not an immediate priority for knee arthroplasty. The elevated WBC count takes precedence as it suggests a
potential infectious process.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
a. Decreased calcium level: NG tube drainage is more likely to result in hypokalemia (decreased potassium) than hypocalcemia (decreased calcium).
b. Decreased potassium level: NG tube drainage, which contains stomach contents, can lead to loss of potassium. Monitoring for hypokalemia is crucial as it can result in cardiac dysrhythmias.
c. Elevated magnesium level: NG tube drainage is not typically associated with an increase in magnesium levels.
d. Elevated sodium level: NG tube drainage may contribute to sodium loss, leading to hyponatremia, rather than hypernatremia.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
a. Droplet precautions: Droplet precautions are used for diseases that are transmitted by
respiratory droplets, such as influenza or pneumonia. HIV is not transmitted through respiratory droplets.
b. Airborne precautions: Airborne precautions are used for diseases that are transmitted through the airborne route, such as tuberculosis. HIV is not transmitted through the airborne route.
c. Standard precautions: Standard precautions are used for the care of all patients, regardless of their diagnosis. These precautions include hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as needed, and safe injection practices.
d. Contact precautions: Contact precautions are used for diseases that are spread by direct or indirect contact, such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). HIV is not
transmitted through contact with intact skin.
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